New York Aster

New York Aster is a classic late-season native perennial that brings masses of violet-blue, purple, pink, or white flowers to the garden from late summer into fall. Upright stems develop into substantial flowering clumps that pair beautifully with goldenrods, native grasses, and other meadow plants, creating a rich burst of color as much of the garden begins to wind down.

Naturally associated with shores, marsh margins, and other moisture-retentive habitats of eastern North America, New York Aster performs best in full sun and medium to wet soil. Its flowers attract butterflies, native bees, and other late-season pollinators, while its seeds provide food for songbirds. The foliage also serves as a larval host for butterflies including pearl crescents and silvery checkerspots, giving this plant strong ecological value well beyond its bloom period.

Why Choose New York Aster:

• Provides abundant late-summer to fall color
• Excellent nectar source for butterflies and native bees
• Seeds provide food for songbirds
• Host plant for pearl crescents and silvery checkerspots
• Great for moist borders, meadows, rain gardens, and naturalized plantings
  

Plant in full sun with medium to wet soil, and divide mature clumps as needed to maintain vigor. Cut stems back in late winter or early spring, or leave seed heads standing through winter for birds and added habitat value.